Symptoms
- Distinct melted-plastic odor during or after a cycle
- Possible visible melted residue in the drum or near the lint trap
- Smell strongest right after opening the dryer
- A specific item from the load is now damaged or partially melted
Likely causes
- CommonA plastic item accidentally left in a pocket or loadSmall plastic items like pens, lighters, or toys can melt against the drum or heating element.
- CommonA garment with plastic trim, buttons, or appliques meltingSome decorative trims aren't heat-safe for machine drying and can melt during a cycle.
- PossibleMelted plastic residue stuck near the heating element or vent pathOnce melted, residue can continue to smell on subsequent cycles until cleaned off.
- PossibleA shoe or item with rubber/plastic sole melting from direct heat exposureCertain shoe materials aren't dryer-safe and can soften or melt.
What to do
- Stop the dryer and check the load immediately for a melted or damaged item.
- Unplug the dryer and inspect the drum thoroughly for melted residue stuck to the interior.
- Check the lint trap and its housing for melted material as well.
- Carefully scrape or wipe away any melted plastic residue once the dryer has cooled, using a plastic scraper to avoid scratching the drum.
- Run an empty cycle with a couple of old towels afterward to help clean any remaining residue and clear the smell.
- Check garment care labels going forward for items with plastic trim, appliques, or rubber soles that shouldn't be machine dried.
- If you can't fully remove melted residue near the heating element, have a technician clean that area safely.
Tools and parts
- Plastic scraper
- Cloth
When to call a pro
If melted residue is near the heating element and you can't safely reach or remove it, have a technician clean that area.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.